This cheat sheet is broken down into sections and is intended to provide information about the upcoming Fire Safety Regulation changes for the person responsible for building safety.
What changes are being made?
New introductions of regulations under article 24 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (Fire Safety Order) to implement the recommendations which were made to the government in Phase 1 of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
These new regulations will make it a requirement in law for the person responsible for high-rise blocks of flats to provide additional safety measures stated below.
Definition of a Responsible Person: “The responsible person is the person who is responsible for the safety of themselves and others who use a regulated premises. This is normally a building owner, or in residential properties, any other person in control of the premises. The responsible person is the person on whom most of the duties set out in the Fire Safety Order are imposed.”
In High-rise Residential Buildings, the Responsible Person will be required to:
- Provide Building Plans to local Fire and Rescue Services with up-to-date electronic building floor plans and a single-page building plan which identifies key firefighting equipment. (Also to provide hard copies of these in a secure information box on site).
- Provide External Wall Systems to local Fire and Rescue Service; information about the design and materials of a high-rise building’s external wall system, the FRS would need to be informed when any changes are made to these walls. Information on the level of risk that the design and materials give to the external wall structure is also required.
- Undertake Monthly Checks on Lifts and other Key Fire-Fighting Equipment which are intended for fire-fighter use. There is also the requirement to report any defective lifts or equipment to the local FRS if they cannot be fixed within 24 hours.
- Install and Maintain Information Boxes in the building. This secure box should include the contact details of the responsible person and hard copies of the building floor plans. – Install Visible Wayfinding Signage in low light or smoky conditions, identifying flat and floor numbers in the stairwells of buildings.
Healthcare environments demand a proactive approach to building surveys, balancing compliance with operational requirements. Regular assessments, clear action plans, and partnering with experienced compliance specialists help ensure safety, legal adherence, and minimal disruption to essential services. Firntec provides expert support to healthcare facilities, ensuring buildings remain safe and compliant in these complex environments.
To learn more about Firntec, contact us today via our contact page.